Not attending the Olympics this summer? Five Brazilian destinations off the beaten track

07.28.2016

TopicFeatured News

The 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games are coming to Rio de Janeiro later this summer, with the opening ceremony set to commence in the city on August 5, The Rio Times reported. While the games and Rio de Janeiro itself are no doubt huge attractions - they will likely receive a substantial influx of travelers throughout the period - some individuals may prefer to escape the chaos and crowds of the city during this time by heading somewhere off the beaten track. Indeed, in addition to a quieter pace, opting to head out of Rio in August could also save you money, as resorts will likely cut prices to lure customers away from the Olympics.

If you're planning a trip to Brazil this August and don't have your heart set on seeing the Olympics, consider heading to one of more of these destinations instead.

1. Baia do Sancho
This area of the Fernando de Noronha archipelago is now widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with Trip Advisor handing over the title of world's best beach in both 2014 and 2015, A Luxury Travel Blog explained. This serene coastal area is an ideal spot to catch some rays, snorkel and scuba dive. Visitors may even be lucky enough to catch a sight of the local dolphin population.

2. Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo is one of Brazil's largest and most exciting cities. According to Travel + Leisure, the metropolis is a leader in areas such as the arts, culture and cuisine. For example, the Sao Paulo art museum is home to an extensive and varied collection, while the plethora of street food options will satisfy the taste buds and leave tourists salivating for more. Certainly, given that Sao Paulo stretches out for a staggering 3,000 square miles, visitors will never be short of things to do or neighborhoods to explore.

The source did note, however, that crime, especially petty theft, is particularly common. Guests are encouraged to protect belongings and employ common sense safety measures while exploring the unique settlement.

3. Brasilia
Many people believe the Rio de Janeiro is Brazil's capital, when this in fact is not the case. While both Rio de Janeiro and Salvador once served as Brazil's capital at different times, the planned urban center of Brasilia became the nation's capital in 1960, About Brasilia explained. The city was developed because the government wanted populations to move more inland and the improve the economy of inland areas - most of Brazil's other major cities, including Rio and Salvador are located on the coast.

Despite being the nation's capital, however, Travel + Leisure explained that few tourists actually make the trip to the settlement, despite an abundance of attractions. The source elaborated that the city is particularly ideal for architecture and culture lovers, with the many buildings reflecting a modernist, 1950s sensibility. There's also plenty more to see and do: Stroll around the Praça dos Três Poderes - home to the nation's government - check out the beauty of Lake Paranoa, and grab a bite to eat in the city's trendy Federal District.

4. Búzios
The Búzios Peninsula, according to the Telegraph, is a famed vacation spot for residents of Rio de Janeiro. The area is replete with numerous beaches, as well luxurious resorts and party hotspots. For guests looking for a location that has pretty much everything - rest, relaxation and play - the Búzios area is ideal. The town of Búzios in particular is filled with some truly outstanding eateries - think French restaurants, seafood joints and even Brazilian-Italian fusion food.

5. Paraty
This beautiful town is incredibly unique - blending both natural and man made beauty. Set against a backdrop of striking mountains, covered in jungles, Paraty was once an area of colonial control, The Telegraph detailed. The settlement is now an epicenter of arts, culture and progressive politics. Travelers should be sure to check out the bay area, the source advised, as it is an area of truly breathtaking natural beauty. Paraty is home to a number of accommodation options to suit guests with a range of budgets.

The information contained here is provided by Brafton. AIG Travel assumes no responsibility for the use, accuracy, or interpretation of the information contained herein.